Umamusume Cinderella Gray [Season 1 Episode 23]

Umamusume Cinderella Gray S1E23: A Wholesome Finale That Leaves Fans Begging for More

If you’ve been following Umamusume Cinderella Gray this season, you know it’s been a wild ride—literally. The spin-off from Cygames’ beloved Umamusume: Pretty Derby franchise has captivated fans with Oguri Cap’s underdog story, and Season 1 Episode 23, the finale, didn’t disappoint. Let’s break down why this episode had viewers cheering, laughing, and already craving Season 2.

First, let’s set the scene. Umamusume Cinderella Gray follows Oguri Cap, a determined horse girl from Kasamatsu Training Center Academy, as she climbs from regional races to the prestigious Twinkle Series. The anime, part of the larger Pretty Derby universe where racehorses are anthropomorphized into “Umamusume,” blends intense racing action with heartfelt character moments. Season 1 Episode 23, which aired in spring 2025, wraps up Oguri’s journey while teasing what’s next.

The finale kicks off with a bang—introducing Inari One, a fan-favorite character from the manga and games. Fans on MyAnimeList went wild for her debut. One user gushed, “Final episode! Surprised that they decided to introduce Inari One for the final episode. Cute and heartwarming ending.” Another added, “New era, new rival, and new character Inari One. The Heisei Big Three is now completed.” Inari’s arrival isn’t just a cameo; the episode dives into her backstory, showing her early races and struggles. As one commenter noted, “They surpassed my expectations with this episode not only teasing the great Inari sama, but also depicting her entire background!”

But it’s not all about new faces. The episode ties up loose ends for Oguri Cap, who’s now the “Star of Kasamatsu.” Her growth from a humble beginner to a national contender has been the heart of the series, and fans loved seeing her shine. “Oguri Cap may be the new Star of Kasamatsu,” one user wrote, “but the self-professed pride of Edo’s Oi, Inari One losing her race to her fellow competitor Face No More in a regular race… Inari’s going places.” The balance between Oguri’s triumph and Inari’s introduction keeps the episode dynamic, leaving viewers excited for their future rivalry.

What makes Umamusume so special is its blend of sports drama and slice-of-life charm. Episode 23 leans into that with a heartwarming Christmas party scene. Fans couldn’t get enough of the cute interactions: “Merry Christmas! 🎅🎄🎁🤶 Such a wholesome finale… Gonna miss Oguri Cap and Belno Light’s hilarious reactions, hehe.” Another commented, “Beautiful and wholesome finale… I hope we won’t have to wait too long for another season.” The party feels like a victory lap for the characters and the audience, celebrating their hard work with laughter and friendship.

Of course, the racing animation is top-tier. Umamusume is known for its stunning 3D graphics, and Episode 23 delivers. “The races looked really great as usual,” a fan praised. The attention to detail—from the mud-splattered tracks to the horses’ powerful strides—makes every race feel intense and immersive. Even the sound design, with the thud of hooves and the crowd’s roar, adds to the excitement. It’s no wonder the franchise has become a hit; it turns horse racing into a spectacle that’s both thrilling and accessible.

But what really has fans talking is the tease for Season 2. The episode ends with a cliffhanger, hinting at more adventures for Oguri and Inari. “You naughty Cygames for teasing us a potential recap! 😂 Inari One is finally here and I can’t wait for Season 2 trailer!” one user joked. Another added, “I assume the livestream planned on the 24th will announce season 2 or they’re planning to announce it at a much later date.” The anticipation is palpable—viewers are already counting down the days until the next chapter.

Critics and fans alike agree: Umamusume Cinderella Gray Season 1 Episode 23 is a solid 9/10. “Awesome finale and amazing cour. 9/10. t5 anime of the season,” a user rated. The episode balances closure with excitement, wrapping up Oguri’s story while setting the stage for new challenges. It’s a testament to the show’s writing that even after 23 episodes, viewers are left wanting more.

For those new to Umamusume, the franchise is a multimedia juggernaut. From mobile games to anime, it’s all about celebrating the spirit of competition and friendship. As one fan put it, “I got into anime because of Uma Musume and now I feel so bummed that I’m pretty much caught up 😭😭😭 So peam… I need moreeeeeeeeee 😭” It’s clear that Umamusume isn’t just an anime—it’s a community, and Episode 23 only strengthened that bond.

In conclusion, Umamusume Cinderella Gray Season 1 Episode 23 is a must-watch. It’s a wholesome, action-packed finale that honors the characters’ journeys while leaving fans excited for what’s next. Whether you’re a die-hard Pretty Derby fan or new to the series, this episode is sure to leave you smiling. So grab your popcorn, cheer for Oguri Cap, and get ready—Season 2 is on the horizon, and it’s going to be epic.

Final Verdict: 9/10. A perfect blend of heart, humor, and horsepower. Don’t miss it!